Complications of ilizarov ring fixator and their management

Abstract

Background: Ilizarov ring fixation technique has its own advantages as well as associated complications. Present study was done retrospectively with an aim to evaluate and manage the intra operative and post operative complications of Ilizarov ring fixator (IRF). All the cases in this study included fractures of either tibia or femur.Material and Methods: The study included 30 cases (31bone segments) that were operated upon with IRF, 24 over tibia, 5 over femur, 1had both over ipsilateral tibia and femur. All cases except one were males. 80 percent of patients were between age group of 16 to 45 years. IRF was applied from 3 to 12.5 months with average duration of 8.25 months. All complications were recorded and managed accordingly.Results: There were a total of 97 complications in 30 patients (31 bone segments) with an average of 3.23 per patient, minimum number of complications being 2 and maximum 4. Pain and pin tract infection was present in all. Complications seen were more for tibia (average 3.28) than for femur (average 2.50).Conclusion: Pain and pin tract infection were the most common complications. Most complications can be prevented by diligent post operative care. Complications if diagnosed early can be managed effectively. As such advantages of IRF outweigh the associated complications.